To be a responsible pet owner, you need to read your pet’s mood and how they respond to certain environmental variables. Some dogs are picky about what they eat, while others are more flippant about their beds. Besides knowing how they feel about certain treats and toys, understanding your dog also helps you know when they’re not feeling their best. This is why learning your pet’s quirks is an important part of providing for their needs.
How to Read Your Dog’s Happy Mood
Understanding your furry companions is a lot simpler than it sounds. Although dogs can’t speak like humans, they still communicate well through body language. Thankfully, these signs are pretty similar to a child’s behavioral patterns.
In this article, we’ll share seven ways dogs express their happy moods.
1. Wiggling Body
Although wagging tails are more common for happy dogs, they also tend to shimmy their bodies towards a person they like. They display this behavior when they’re around people and animals they trust. This can also be a behavior they display when showing their curiosity. It’s a kind of giddiness similar to a person shifting their weight from one foot to another.
2. Smiling Grin
Don’t be fooled by their open mouths to perspire. Although dogs naturally stick their tongue out to cool down their body, they also naturally smile when they’re happy. When their mouth’s corners are turned up, they’re smiling more as an emotional response than for thermal regulation.
3. Staying Well Behaved
Happy dogs aren’t always excited to show their happiness. Sometimes, they can be restrained and composed when they’re delighted. Even if they sit still or lie down, they may still uncontrollably wag their tail or show a wide grin.
4. Exposing Their Belly
A happy dog tends to have their guard down. This is why they’re at their most comfortable when they’re around people they like. Some dogs like to lay on their backs and ask for a belly rub, exposing their ticklish weakness to the people they trust.
5. Sleeping Around You
Dogs are naturally alert, even around their owners. This is why they tend to sleep only when they’re exhausted or comfortable. A Happy dog can sleep for up to 16 hours, which is why they take plenty of naps throughout the day. Remember to bring your dog on walks to help them exercise and get a few Zs in!
6. Patting Your Hand
As you pet your dog, they may want to put their paw on your arm or leg. This is a sign of affection to show their trust. They think of it as petting you back in return for the pats they received.
7. Having a Healthy Appetite
Dogs with a healthy appetite are naturally in high spirits. This is why it’s vital to check on them if they refuse to eat their meals. Besides their pickiness, they might feel sick or moody if they don’t want to eat. If they continue to avoid eating regularly, you should bring them to a vet for a quick check-up.
Conclusion
Not all dogs will express these signs with equal regard. This means some dogs will be more active in smiling, wagging their tail, or showing their belly. These quirks make them unique for their personality. Over time, your pup will show more preference over some body languages over others. This is why it’s your responsibility as your owner to learn their distinct ways of communicating.
A happy dog isn’t just a pampered dog; they’re also a well-trained companion. This is why it’s vital for pet owners to learn the basics of disciplining their furry friends. Read the best dog training blogs by visiting our online archive today!